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10 Best Fuel Efficient Generator 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,167
Fuel Type
Wattage
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
25413 reviews

Fuel Type
True dual fuel capability, with seamless propane operation.
Wattage
Plentiful power that's more than enough to power an entire home.
Fuel Efficiency
Outstanding fuel efficiency with hours of runtime without frequent refueling.
Noise Level
Surprisingly quiet compared to other generators.
Portability
Compact design makes it easy to store when not in use.

The Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is a powerful and versatile option for home backup power needs. It supports both gasoline and propane, offering flexibility depending on fuel availability. With 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts on gasoline (8500 running watts and 11200 peak watts on propane), it's capable of handling substantial loads, making it suitable for residential use during power outages or emergencies.

The generator features a remote electric start and a transfer switch ready design, adding convenience for users who want easy operations and seamless power transitions. It also comes with multiple protected outlets, including standard household receptacles and RV-ready outlets, enhancing its usability for various applications. The runtime of up to 12 hours on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank is quite practical, though fuel efficiency might vary depending on the load.

The built-in VFT display provides real-time updates on voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours, which is helpful for monitoring performance. However, the generator's weight of 210 pounds could be a drawback for those seeking high portability, despite being labeled as portable. Additionally, the noise level is not specified, but generators of this size typically produce a considerable amount of noise, which could be a concern for some users. While it doesn’t include inverter technology, which is essential for sensitive electronics, it’s an excellent choice for general home backup with robust power output and dual fuel capability.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,167
Fuel Type
Wattage
Fuel Efficiency

Most important from
25413 reviews

Fuel Type
True dual fuel capability, with seamless propane operation.
Wattage
Plentiful power that's more than enough to power an entire home.
Fuel Efficiency
Outstanding fuel efficiency with hours of runtime without frequent refueling.
Noise Level
Surprisingly quiet compared to other generators.
Portability
Compact design makes it easy to store when not in use.
#2

Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered

Rating
10.0
Fuel Type
Wattage
Noise Level

Most important from
2045 reviews

Fuel Type
Dual fuel capability with included propane and natural gas hoses adds great flexibility and convenience right out of the box.
Wattage
The generator delivers robust power capable of running an entire house's essential appliances without showing any strain or stress.
Noise Level
The noise level is moderate and manageable, quieter than many other generators in its power class.
Portability
Despite its heavy 230-pound weight, the included wheel kit and handle make it manageable to move when needed.
Runtime
Runtime is impressive, supporting long usage periods and reducing the frequency of refueling during outages.
Inverter Technology
It does not produce clean enough power for sensitive electronics, as frequency runs consistently above typical UPS thresholds, posing a risk for modern appliances with electronic controls.

The Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a solid choice for a home backup power source, especially if you want flexibility in fuel options. It runs on both gasoline and propane, which can be handy depending on what fuel is more available or economical for you. With 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline, it can handle heavy loads like multiple appliances or power tools comfortably. On propane, the peak wattage is a bit lower but still substantial.

One of the standout features is its runtime—up to 19 hours on a full 9.5-gallon tank, which means it can keep your essentials running for a long stretch without needing a refill. It also comes with a remote electric start, making it easier to operate, plus safety features like automatic low oil shutdown and carbon monoxide sensors.

In terms of portability, it weighs about 230 pounds, so it’s not lightweight and will need some effort or wheels to move around, which might be a drawback if you want something more mobile. It has multiple outlets, including ones ready for RV and transfer switches, adding to its versatility. This Westinghouse model fits well if you want a powerful, dual-fuel generator with long runtime and convenient features for home backup use. Keep in mind it’s fairly heavy and lacks inverter technology, so it won’t provide the super clean power that sensitive electronics might require.

Rating
10.0
Fuel Type
Wattage
Noise Level

Most important from
2045 reviews

Fuel Type
Dual fuel capability with included propane and natural gas hoses adds great flexibility and convenience right out of the box.
Wattage
The generator delivers robust power capable of running an entire house's essential appliances without showing any strain or stress.
Noise Level
The noise level is moderate and manageable, quieter than many other generators in its power class.
Portability
Despite its heavy 230-pound weight, the included wheel kit and handle make it manageable to move when needed.
Runtime
Runtime is impressive, supporting long usage periods and reducing the frequency of refueling during outages.
Inverter Technology
It does not produce clean enough power for sensitive electronics, as frequency runs consistently above typical UPS thresholds, posing a risk for modern appliances with electronic controls.
#3

Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas Powered

Rating
10.0
Fuel Type

Most important from
2246 reviews

Fuel Type
Successfully hooked up to natural gas, started in 2 minutes, and powers most appliances and a small gas furnace.

The Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is a versatile and powerful option for those needing a reliable backup power source for homes or portable power for outdoor activities. It can run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas, providing flexibility in fuel choice. The generator offers substantial power with 14,500 peak watts on gasoline, 13,500 peak watts on propane, and 12,000 peak watts on natural gas, making it suitable for larger homes or demanding power needs.

Its runtime is impressive, offering up to 19 hours on a full 9.5-gallon gas tank or up to 7 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank, ensuring prolonged operation during power outages or extended outdoor use. The generator features a remote electric start for convenience, and it's transfer switch ready, making it easy to integrate into home power systems. It also includes safety features like overload protection, automatic voltage regulation, and a CO sensor.

However, it is quite heavy at 230 pounds, which may affect portability despite its sturdy wheels. Its fuel efficiency is commendable, especially with the ability to use different fuel types. The 3-year limited warranty and nationwide customer service network add to its reliability. This generator is best suited for homeowners looking for a robust backup power source or those needing dependable power in remote locations with varying fuel availability.

Rating
10.0
Fuel Type

Most important from
2246 reviews

Fuel Type
Successfully hooked up to natural gas, started in 2 minutes, and powers most appliances and a small gas furnace.

Buying Guide for the Best Fuel Efficient Generator

Choosing a fuel-efficient generator can be a great investment, especially if you need a reliable power source for emergencies, outdoor activities, or even for your home or business. The key to selecting the right generator is understanding the various specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are some important specs to consider when choosing a fuel-efficient generator.
Fuel TypeGenerators can run on different types of fuel such as gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. The type of fuel affects the generator's efficiency, cost of operation, and availability. Gasoline is widely available but less efficient and has a shorter shelf life. Diesel is more efficient and has a longer shelf life but can be more expensive. Propane is clean-burning and has an indefinite shelf life but requires a storage tank. Natural gas is convenient if you have a gas line but is less portable. Choose the fuel type based on availability, cost, and your specific needs.
WattageWattage indicates the amount of power a generator can produce. It's important to determine your power needs by adding up the wattage of all the devices you plan to run simultaneously. Generators are rated by starting (surge) watts and running (continuous) watts. Starting watts are higher and account for the initial power surge needed to start appliances. Running watts are the continuous power the generator can supply. Choose a generator with a wattage rating that exceeds your total power needs to ensure reliable performance.
Fuel EfficiencyFuel efficiency measures how long a generator can run on a specific amount of fuel. This is usually expressed in terms of run time at a certain load (e.g., half load). A more fuel-efficient generator will run longer on the same amount of fuel, saving you money and reducing the frequency of refueling. Look for generators with features like eco-mode or variable engine speed, which adjust the power output based on the load to improve fuel efficiency. Choose a generator with good fuel efficiency to minimize operational costs and maximize convenience.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a generator is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the generator will be during operation. Lower noise levels are important for comfort, especially if you plan to use the generator in residential areas or during outdoor activities. Generators with noise levels below 60 dB are considered quiet and are suitable for most applications. Choose a generator with a noise level that won't disturb you or your neighbors, especially if you plan to use it in noise-sensitive environments.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the generator. This is influenced by the generator's weight, size, and design features like wheels and handles. If you need a generator for camping, tailgating, or other outdoor activities, a lightweight and compact model with wheels and handles will be easier to transport. For home or business use, portability may be less critical, but consider how you will move the generator for maintenance or storage. Choose a generator with the right balance of portability and power for your intended use.
RuntimeRuntime indicates how long a generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. This is usually given for a specific load, such as half load. Longer runtimes mean fewer interruptions for refueling, which is especially important during extended power outages or when using the generator for long periods. Consider your typical usage scenarios and choose a generator with a runtime that meets your needs. For example, if you need a generator for overnight use, look for one with a runtime of at least 8-10 hours at half load.
Inverter TechnologyInverter generators produce clean and stable power, making them suitable for sensitive electronics like laptops, smartphones, and medical devices. They are also typically more fuel-efficient and quieter than conventional generators. Inverter technology adjusts the engine speed to match the power demand, improving efficiency and reducing noise. If you need to power sensitive electronics or value quiet operation and fuel efficiency, consider choosing an inverter generator.

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